The Gillingham F.C. Hall of Fame was devised in 2008.[1] The initial series of articles, containing the first set of nominees, was published in the club's match day magazine throughout the 2008/09 season, written by Gillingham fan Chris Ray. 21 men associated with the club's past were interviewed, with five inductees to be decided by a fan vote. Jimmy Scarth and John Simpson, both of whom had already died, were also profiled.
Following the re-run of the articles via the club's official website, the first five players to be elected were chosen in July 2009. Although the club announced at the time that one new inductee would be decided by the same fan vote process every year,[2] no new inductee was announced in 2010.
| Name | Position | Seasons | Nationality | Appearances | Goals | Inaugurated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Simpson | Goalkeeper | 1957–1972 | England | 616 | 0 | 2009 |
| Andy Hessenthaler | Midfielder Manager |
1996–2006 | England | 363 | 36 | 2009 |
| Brian Yeo | Striker | 1963–1975 | England | 387 | 149 | 2009 |
| Tony Cascarino | Striker | 1981–1987 | Ireland | 269 | 110 | 2009 |
| Steve Bruce | Defender | 1979–1984 | England | 237 | 37 | 2009 |
Upon learning of his admission into the Hall of Fame, Bruce said: “I have great memories of my time at the club and would like to thank everyone involved during my time there and for the support I’ve had since. To be voted into the Gillingham Hall of Fame, particularly by supporters, is a great honour.”
Hessenthaler commented, “I’ve always had a special bond with the fans and even now I stop and have some great conversations with them about past games and memories. Gillingham is my club and it always will be.” [3]
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